Plant gets double dose of excellence

The Chaparral Water Treatment Plant in Scottsdale, Ariz., is the first major surface-water treatment plant in the state to use direct microfiltration followed by granular activated carbon adsorption.

Although it's still under construction, Scottsdale, Ariz.'s Chaparral Water Treatment Plant has already garnered two awards: for design and for public art.

The 30-mgd facility, which began producing potable water in March, received a Grand Award in Engineering Excellence from the Arizona chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies. Overland Park, Kan.-based Black & Veatch consulted on site selection, pilot testing, design, and construction; and worked with architects to ensure the plant would fit in with surrounding neighborhoods.

According to the city's water resources general manager, David Mansfield, the plant has exceeded the city's water quality goals and is a welcome addition to Scottsdale.

“Like a good neighbor, it's quiet, produces no pollution, and creates no traffic hazards,” he says.

In addition, the plant received an Art in Public Places Award of Merit from the Valley Forward Association for landscape treatment and the weathered metal sculptures that span two exterior walls.